Continuous monitoring for employees involves the ongoing monitoring and evaluation of their background information throughout their tenure with the organization. It provides real-time updates on any changes or developments in an employee's background. This monitoring can include various aspects, such as criminal records, credit history, professional license status, motor vehicle records, and more, depending on the organization's requirements and industry regulations. These ongoing checks will automatically generate alerts or notifications when significant changes or red flags are detected.
In adding continuous monitoring to existing screening programs, employers are able to proactively identify potential risks or issues that may arise, enabling them to promptly address and mitigate them quickly. It helps organizations maintain a safer workplace, while protecting their brand reputation.
As the trend of adding continuous monitoring continues to grow rapidly, today’s blog will examine 7 benefits to consider:
- Enhanced Security: Continuous monitoring provides ongoing oversight of employees' backgrounds, helping employers identify potential risks that may have arisen since the initial screening. It allows for early detection of any criminal activities, regulatory violations, or other misconduct that may pose a threat to the workplace and the organization's security.
- Risk Mitigation: By implementing continuous monitoring, employers can minimize the risk of negligent hiring or retaining employees who could harm the company's reputation, assets, or employees. Regular monitoring helps to identify any changes in an employee's background that may disqualify them from their current role or indicate a potential risk.
- Regulatory Compliance: In some industries, regulatory bodies require certain levels of screening and ongoing monitoring to ensure compliance. For instance, in finance, healthcare, or childcare sectors, employers may need to demonstrate diligent efforts to protect sensitive information or vulnerable individuals. Continuous monitoring helps fulfill these obligations and reduces the risk of non-compliance.
- Employee and Client Safety: Maintaining a safe working environment should always be a top priority in any organization. By incorporating continuous monitoring, employers can promptly identify and address any potential threats posed by employees. This proactive approach helps protect not only the organization and its assets but also other employees, customers, and clients who interact with the workforce.
- Employee Integrity and Trust: Adopting continuous monitoring demonstrates an organization's commitment to maintaining a safe, trustworthy and ethical workplace. It sets clear expectations that employees' backgrounds will be continuously assessed, which can act as a deterrent for misconduct. This approach fosters a safer culture and reinforces the organization's values.
- Rapid Response to Red Flags: Continuous monitoring allows employers to identify and respond to red flags promptly. This could include criminal convictions, substance abuse issues, or other behaviors that may pose a risk. By intervening early, employers can take appropriate actions such as additional training, counseling, or disciplinary measures to mitigate potential problems before they escalate.
- Adaptability to Changing Circumstances: People's circumstances can change over time. Continuous monitoring helps employers stay up to date with any significant changes in an employee's background, such as new criminal convictions, civil lawsuits, or license suspensions. This ongoing evaluation enables organizations to make informed decisions about retaining or reassigning employees based on current information rather than information available at the time of hire.
It is important to note that while continuous monitoring can provide valuable insights, it must be implemented ethically and in full compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Employers should establish clear policies and guidelines regarding the collection, storage, and use of monitoring data to maintain employee privacy and ensure transparency. An accredited CRA, such as Vault Workforce Screening can help you navigate the complexities of adding continuous monitoring to your existing program, with ease.
We are currently offering a free 30-minute screening program review with our compliance experts. Schedule today and we'll step through every aspect of your program and where you may be able to improve, as well as how you can successfully add continuous monitoring to your existing program. There is no obligation or risk involved, and you'll receive a free report you can review with team members following the consultation.